Authentic Japanese Spinach Salad (Goma-ae)
This delightful and nutritious salad combines tender spinach with a stunning sesame dressing, offering a quick, vibrant dish that enhances any meal.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 bunch fresh spinach Use fresh, young leaves for best flavor.
For the Dressing
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds Toast until golden in a dry skillet.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar Can substitute with honey for a different flavor.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil Use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or sand. Trim the ends and remove any thick stems.
- In a large pot of boiling water, add the spinach and cook for about 1 minute until wilted. Immediately transfer the spinach to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Once cooled, drain the spinach and gently squeeze out any excess water.
Making the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until the sugar dissolves.
- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until golden and aromatic.
Combine and Serve
- In a mixing bowl, toss the spinach with the dressing until evenly coated. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top.
- Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Best served fresh, as the spinach may soften over time.